If you’re a licensed master plumber in Massachusetts and considering taking on a job just over the border in New Hampshire, you’re not alone. Many skilled tradespeople face this exact question—especially in the Northeast, where state lines are close but regulations can differ sharply. Can a Massachusetts master plumber do work in New Hampshire? The short answer: not automatically. Each state controls its own licensing, and working without proper credentials could lead to fines, legal trouble, or even project shutdowns. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to know—and do—to legally work in the Granite State.
Does New Hampshire Recognize Massachusetts Plumbing Licenses?
According to the Board, all plumbing work in New Hampshire—whether residential, commercial, or industrial—must be performed by a plumber licensed in the state. This includes master plumbers, journeymen, and even apprentices working under supervision.
“New Hampshire does not have reciprocity with any other state,” confirms the official licensing FAQ from the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC).
This means your Massachusetts master plumber license, while valid and respected, does not grant you legal authority to pull permits or perform plumbing work in New Hampshire without additional steps.
What Are New Hampshire’s Plumbing License Requirements?
To legally work as a master plumber in New Hampshire, you must meet specific criteria set by the state. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Meet Experience Requirements
You need documented proof of:
At least 4 years of practical plumbing experience as a journeyman (or equivalent), and
Completion of 700 hours of approved plumbing education or training.
Note: Massachusetts master plumbers often exceed this threshold, which works in your favor.
2. Pass the New Hampshire Master Plumber Exam
The exam covers:
NH State Plumbing Code (based on the IPC with state amendments)
Gas fitting regulations
Local permitting and inspection rules
The test is administered by PSI Services. Passing score: 70%.
3. Submit a Complete Application
Required documents include:
Notarized application form
Proof of experience (signed by employers or affidavits)
Transcripts or training certificates
$175 application fee (as of 2025)
Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.
4. Obtain a Surety Bond & Insurance
Once licensed, you must carry:
$10,000 surety bond
General liability insurance
Workers’ compensation (if you have employees)
Tip: Many Massachusetts plumbers operate as LLCs or sole proprietors. Ensure your business is registered with the NH Secretary of State if you plan to contract under a company name.
Is There Any Pathway for Temporary or Limited Work?
Yes—but with strict limits.
Option 1: Work Under a Licensed New Hampshire Contractor
You can assist on a job site as a subcontractor or employee, but:
A licensed NH master plumber must pull the permit.
You cannot sign off on inspections or represent yourself as the responsible plumber.
This is common for short-term projects, like helping a friend’s company during a busy season.
Option 2: Apply for a Temporary Permit (Rare)
New Hampshire does not issue temporary plumbing licenses. However, in emergencies (e.g., public health hazards), local building officials may allow limited work under supervision—but this is discretionary and not guaranteed.
⚠️ Warning: Performing plumbing work without a license in NH is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $2,000 per violation (RSA 310-A:36).
Massachusetts vs. New Hampshire: Key Licensing Differences
Criteria
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
Governing Body
Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters
Real-World Example: A MA Plumber’s Experience in NH
Tom R., a master plumber from Worcester, MA, was hired to renovate a vacation home in Conway, NH. Assuming his MA license would suffice, he began work—only to be shut down during the rough-in inspection.
“I didn’t realize NH required its own license,” Tom said. “I lost two weeks of work, had to pay a $1,200 fine, and the homeowner had to re-file permits under a local plumber.”
After that, Tom applied for his NH license. “The exam was different—more focus on gas lines and septic rules. But once I got it, I started getting more jobs up north.”
His advice? “Don’t assume. Always check with the state board first.”
How Long Does It Take to Get Licensed in New Hampshire?
If you’re already a MA master plumber, the timeline looks like this:
Gather documents (1–2 weeks)
Submit application (4–6 weeks for review)
Schedule & pass exam (2–4 weeks after approval)
Receive license (1–2 weeks post-exam)
Total: ~8–12 weeks
You can speed up the process by:
Using certified mail for submissions
Preparing experience affidavits in advance
Studying NH-specific code amendments (available on the OPLC website)
FAQ: Common Questions About Cross-State Plumbing Work
Q1: Can I do emergency plumbing repairs in NH with my MA license?
A: No. Even emergency work (e.g., burst pipes) requires a NH-licensed plumber to pull permits and oversee the job. You may assist, but not lead or certify the work.
Q2: Does New Hampshire accept my Massachusetts exam scores?
A: No. You must take and pass the NH master plumber exam, regardless of your MA credentials.
Q3: Do I need a separate license for gas fitting?
A: Yes. New Hampshire issues dual licenses: Plumbing, Gas Fitting, or both. If your MA license includes gas, you’ll still need to apply and test for NH gas fitting separately.
Q4: Can I renew my NH license online?
A: Yes. Renewals are handled through the NH OPLC portal. You’ll need 8 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
Q5: What if I only do consulting or design—not installation?
A: If you’re not touching pipes or systems, you may not need a license. However, if your plans require plumbing permits, a NH-licensed plumber must stamp them.
Q6: Are there penalties for homeowners who hire unlicensed plumbers?
A: Yes. Homeowners can be fined and may face issues during resale or inspections if work wasn’t done by a licensed professional.
Conclusion
So, can a Massachusetts master plumber do work in New Hampshire? Only after obtaining a New Hampshire plumbing license. While the process takes time and effort, it’s entirely achievable—especially for experienced professionals like you. Not only does it keep you compliant, but it also opens up a growing market in one of the Northeast’s most scenic (and construction-active) states.
If you’re serious about expanding your business across state lines, start your NH application today. And if you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow tradespeople on LinkedIn or Facebook—they’ll thank you later!
💡 Pro Tip: Bookmark the NH Plumbers Board page and sign up for email updates on code changes or exam dates.
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